The Great Falls Animal Shelter is offering free engraved pet name tags March 11–14 to encourage pet identification following recent high winds in the community.

Wind events, another of which is predicted tonight through Thursday, can increase the likelihood of pets becoming separated from their families due to damaged fencing, open gates, or frightened animals leaving yards or homes.

Identification tags are one of the quickest ways to reunite lost pets with their owners.

The event is intended to help residents replace tags that may have been lost and to ensure pets have visible identification before future wind events occur.

GFPS relocating some Lincoln students after wind blows off roof

During the same period, the shelter is also providing microchipping services for $25, offering permanent identification that can assist in returning pets home if collars or tags are lost.

Residents may visit the shelter during regular business hours. Walk-ins are welcome.

The National Weather Service Great Falls office is predicting a significant wind event, with sustained wind speeds of between 35-55 miles per hour for 12-18 hours and higher gusts, for central and northcentral Montana from late Wednesday evening through Thursday evening.

“The duration and magnitude of the winds will lead to dangerous driving conditions, power outages, property damage, and areas of reduced visibility due to blowing dust. Consider delaying travel if possible on Thursday, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Beware of your surroundings if outside, watch out for falling trees/limbs and downed power lines,” according to NWS.

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This wind event will rival the December 17, 2025 and March 8 wind storms, according to NWS.

Rain and snow are also forecasted through Sunday night.

Great Falls Fire Rescue is asking the community to be aware of the potential for downed trees, branches and power lines, difficult travel conditions and possible property damage and power outages.

Lincoln Elementary roof damaged by wind, school will not be held there Monday or Tuesday

GFFR asks the community to use these safety and preparedness tips:

• secure or bring inside loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, trash cans and decorations
• if you encounter downed power lines, stay far away and report them immediately
• prepare for possible outages by charging phones, having backup battery packs, flashlights, blankets, and extra food and water
• those who rely on electrically powered medical equipment should ensure backup batteries are charged and have a plan in case of a power outage
• use extra caution when driving, especially if operating high-profile vehicles
• avoid parking under large trees if possible

“Emergency crews will respond as needed, but strong winds can create multiple incidents at once. Taking a few simple precautions ahead of time can help reduce risk. Please stay weather aware and check on neighbors who may need assistance,” GFFR wrote.

The Great Falls Police Department asks community members to “stay away from incidents where emergency personnel are working. If you try to enter or get close to a debris field or damage zone, you not only put yourself in danger, you put the responders in peril as well, and you may be cited.”

City continuing wind storm cleanup [2024]

NorthWestern Energy is asking customers to put safety first and is adding staffing, equipment and supplies to prepare for the forecasted wind event.

“It’s critical to stay well away from downed or low‑hanging power lines. If you see a damaged or fallen line, keep your distance and report it immediately,” according to NWE. “Never touch a power line or anything in contact with it, including trees. Keep people, equipment, and objects at least 30 feet away, and never attempt to remove a fallen tree or branch from a power line.”

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